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Alternatives proposed by the group include retaining the use of the playground in St Anne's Primary School, Washington Road, which the pupils of the two schools currently share, or expanding use in Christchurch Meadows where thew school's PE lessons are held.

However, headteacher Karen Edwards argued the school does not have the staff or resources to police all of its pupils during break, which is why the plan has been submitted.

Councillor Adele Barnett-Ward, who spoke in opposition to the first plan at the committee meeting, said she was pleased with the changes, but felt some issues still needed to be resolved.

She said: "There's still an issue with shade, because its very hot these days, and there is still a problem with the playground being in the way of the path.

"A lot of residents don't want a fence on the park full stop, which is understandable because it is very well used, other residents are more open to compromise."

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The clock is ticking for the school, as it is attempting to secure the play area before the new intake of pupils in September.

If approved, the schoolchildren would use the playground for 25 minutes for mid-morning break, one hour for lunch time and for two hour PE lessons on a Monday and Wednesday.

In support of the application, a Reading Borough Council spokesman said: "The Heights School is at full capacity and this proposed temporary arrangement is a practical solution which will enable it to continue to function safely and accommodate the intake of new children for up to a further two years.

"Under the plans there will also be full restoration of the park when the school moves on."

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Responding to concerns from neighbours that they had not been properly consulted, the spokesman added: "As part of the normal planning process, there are a minimum of 21 days statutory consultation and the council will additionally accept all representations up until the date of committee."

The plan is due to be decided at the planning committee on Wednesday, July 18.